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Omega-3 fatty acids are some of the most widely known and well-researched nutraceuticals on the market. There are good reasons why. Omega-3s are critically important to overall health and well-being. Scientific evidence shows they can improve brain function, memory, blood flow, and mood. Omega-3s can also reduce brain shrinkage from aging and inflammation. What many people don’t know is that there are 2 active compounds in omega-3s: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). You need both. But what’s the difference between EPA and DHA? What many people don’t know is that there are 2 active compounds in omega-3s: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). You need both.
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WHAT IS EPA?

EPA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is known primarily for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can have many benefits for the brain and body. A 2019 meta-analysis in the Journal of the American Heart Association points to supplementation with omega-3 EPA and DHA as protective for heart health. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis in The Lancet found that supplementation with EPA alone provided a greater reduction of risk compared with a combination of EPA and DHA. Other research from 2021 found that treatment with both EPA and DHA led to greater improvement in cognitive function in people with heart disease.

WHAT IS DHA?

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is a vital component of cell membranes and an important building block in the brain. Critical for healthy brain development in the womb and in newborns, DHA continues to play a critical role in maintaining brain function throughout the lifespan. This important substance promotes fluidity of brain cell membranes, and it could influence the way we think and feel. DHA is so important to brain function, that some experts call it “brain food.” A 2017 review paper points to many benefits of oral supplementation with DHA, including enhanced neurogenesis and improved memory. The paper also analyzed animal studies showing that rats that were DHA deficient had symptoms of depression, anxiety, and memory problems.

DO YOU HAVE LOW LEVELS OF OMEGA-3 EPA AND DHA?

Unfortunately, most Americans are low in omega-3 fatty acids. In 2016, Amen Clinics tested the omega-3 fatty acids levels of 50 consecutive patients who were not taking fish oil (the most commonly used source of EPA and DHA) and found that 49 had suboptimal levels. Having low levels of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in your bloodstream is associated with inflammation. It’s also one of the leading preventable causes of death, according to researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health. Low levels of EPA and DHA are also linked to: In another study at Amen Clinics, the research team correlated the brain SPECT imaging scans of 130 patients with their EPA and DHA levels. SPECT is an imaging technology that measures blood flow and activity in the brain. The scans found that individuals with the lowest levels of EPA and DHA had lower blood flow in the brain, including in regions involved in memory. On SPECT, low blood flow is the #1 brain imaging predictor that a person will develop Alzheimer’s disease. On cognitive testing, low omega-3 levels also correlated with lower mood scores. How can you test your omega-3 level? The Omega-3 Index is a test that involves a single drop of blood to measure the total amount of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in red blood cells. This directly reflects the levels of EPA and DHA in the brain.

HOW TO GET ADEQUATE OMEGA-3 EPA AND DHA

The human body has a very limited capacity to produce EPA and DHA, so you must get these substances from foods or supplements. Unfortunately, the Standard American Diet (SAD) provides a far greater abundance of omega-6 fatty acids and a scarcity of omega-3s. Some research suggests that the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 has skyrocketed from 1:1 during evolutionary times to a whopping 20:1, or even higher, today. Consuming too many omega-6s has been associated with inflammation, obesity, and other health issues. The best dietary sources of omega-3 EPA and DHA are cold-water fish, such as salmon, sardines, or herring. However, some fish are high in mercury and other toxins. Because of this, highly concentrated, high-quality fish oil supplements are a healthy alternative to getting the omega-3 EPA and DHA needed. Look for products that provide 1,000-3,000 mg of EPA and DHA.

CAN VEGETARIANS AND VEGANS GET ENOUGH OMEGA-3 EPA AND DHA?

For vegetarians and vegans, it can be an even greater challenge to get enough omega-3 fatty acids through diet. Plants make a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is found in foods like flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds. The human body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA, but it isn’t very efficient. As far as supplements go, compared to fish oil-based omega-3 products, most vegan omega-3 fatty acid products on the market have very low levels of omega-3 DHA and virtually no omega-3 EPA. BrainMD recently introduced Vegan Omega-3 Power, a formula that supplies clinically effective doses of EPA and DHA.

BENEFITS OF SUPPLEMENTATION WITH OMEGA-3 EPA AND DHA

Decades of scientific evidence reveal that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA offers a wealth of benefits. For example, a 20-year study with over 3,000 participants found that individuals—especially women—with the greatest intake of EPA and DHA were less likely to experience depression symptoms. Research shows that other benefits associated with omega-3 EPA and DHA include increased attention in people with ADD/ADHD. A study in Archives of General Psychiatry showed a reduced risk for psychosis. They can also be helpful for children with behavioral problems. At Amen Clinics, when a group of retired football players were treated with highly concentrated fish oil supplements, many of them were able to decrease or completely eliminate their pain medications. Mood, memory, ADD/ADHD, and other mental health and brain health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Feeling more depressed and anxious these days? Join the club. The numbers of people feeling blue and nervous are skyrocketing. In fact, research shows that from August 2020 to February 2021, the percentage of American adults reporting symptoms of major depressive disorder or an anxiety disorder jumped from 36.4% to 41.5%. For most people, it’s a double whammy as anxiety and depression occur together 75% of the time, according to brain SPECT imaging findings at Amen Clinics.   Anxiety and depression occur together 75% of the time, according to brain SPECT imaging findings at Amen Clinics.
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To overcome low moods and anxiousness, many people turn to antidepressants or anti-anxiety pills, or both. But prescription medications aren’t the only way to decrease depression and anxiety. Here are 10 science-backed natural solutions that can boost moods and calm anxiety.

10 NATURAL WAYS TO HELP ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

1. Eat more veggies and fruits.

Mom was right when she told you to eat your veggies. A 2020 systematic review concluded that higher consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with greater overall mental health, including improvements in both depression and anxiety.

2. Eliminate processed and artificial foods.

You have to eat right to feel right. This means ditching unhealthy, fake foods that drive depression and anxiety. A 2019 French study found that as consumption of ultra-processed foods go up, so does depression. Research in Nutritional Neuroscience suggests there is a link between the artificial sweetener aspartame and several neurophysiological symptoms, including anxiety and depression.

3. Say “om.”

A Johns Hopkins review of existing scientific research shows that meditating for 30 minutes a day has beneficial effects on symptoms of both anxiety and depression.

4. Practice prayer.

Prayer can have a powerful and long-lasting effect on depression and anxiety. According to a 2012 study, depressed and anxious people who participated in an intervention involving 1-hour prayer sessions for 6 weeks saw a significant reduction in their symptoms as well as an increase in optimism. Even more promising, the positive improvements were maintained a year after the completion of the prayer intervention.

5. Breathe.

You may be aware that deep breathing promotes relaxation and reduces stress, but did you know it can also improve depression and anxiety? A 2016 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that a yogic breathing practice helped fight treatment-resistant depression (people who did not respond fully to medication treatment), and it also lowered anxiety symptoms. This breathing technique centers on alternating between slow, calm breaths and fast, stimulating breaths.

6. Kill the ANTs.

Automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) infest your mind and fuel blue moods, anxiousness, and stress. Whenever you feel sad, mad, nervous, or out of control, write down what you’re thinking. Then, use an elegantly simple yet powerful strategy to challenge your thoughts developed by Byron Katie and ask yourself, “Is it true?” Chances are, you’ll find that these intrusive thoughts aren’t true at all.

7. Get moving.

Physical activity lifts moods and eases anxiousness. Research in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine points to exercise as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression and as an effective alternative treatment for anxiety disorders.

8. Add saffron to your daily supplements.

Scientific evidence supports the use of nutraceuticals to promote healthy moods and relaxation. One supplement that has positive effects on both anxiousness and depression is saffron, according to a 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis. The review authors suggest that “saffron could be an effective intervention for symptoms of depression and anxiety,” however, they add that more trials are necessary.

9. Optimize omega-3 levels.

Another key nutritional supplement that does double duty is omega-3 fatty acids. A 2018 study in JAMA Open Network found that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves symptoms of clinical anxiety. Similarly, findings from a 2019 meta-analysis point to the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids on symptoms of depression. You can check your omega-3 levels by taking the Omega-3 Index blood test.

10. Try neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that assesses brainwave activity in real-time and helps you gain control of your brainwaves to reach a desired brain state. A 2017 review shows that neurofeedback has the potential to treat both depression and anxiety. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Kids with behavioral disorders or emotional issues can be so challenging—disruptive, defiant, argumentative, impulsive, inattentive, nervous, negative. Parents know it can be exhausting, frustrating, and stressful. Many parents assume that prescription medication is the only way to improve symptoms that are associated with conditions, such as ADD/ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, or autism. But a growing body of scientific evidence shows that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves the quality of life and mental health status in children with emotional and behavioral issues. Aa growing body of scientific evidence shows that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves quality of life and mental health status in children with emotional and behavioral issues.
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Here’s what the current research reveals about children, mental and behavioral health, and omega-3 fatty acids. First, let’s take a quick look at the basics of omega-3s.

WHAT ARE OMEGA-3s?

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that children (and adults) need for optimal physical, mental, and cognitive health. There are 2 active compounds in omega-3s: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Children (and adults) need both. Omega-3s are considered essential fatty acids because the human body doesn’t produce them naturally. They can only be derived from food or dietary supplements, such as fish oil.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS

A 2020 study in the Journal of Dietary Supplements involved 942 children ages 6-12 with behavioral disorders, including conduct problems, inattention, nervousness, hyperactivity, trouble concentrating, and learning issues and poor school performance. For the 3-month study, the youngsters were split into 2 groups—one group received supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids while the other group did not. By the end of the study period, children who had been taking omega-3 dietary supplements health status, quality of life, and scores on Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires improved significantly. The researchers concluded, “Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation alone or in combination with other nonpharmacological treatments is effective in improving children’s mental health.”

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND ADD/ADHD

In an analysis of 10 studies in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, researchers summarized 10 trials involving 699 children. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation demonstrated a small but significant effect in improving ADD/ADHD symptoms. EPA dose within supplements was significantly correlated with supplement efficacy. They concluded that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, particularly with higher doses of EPA, was modestly effective in the treatment of ADD/ADHD. A 2017 review of 16 studies found that omega-3 fatty acids improved impulsivity, hyperactivity, attention, visual learning, and working/short-term memory. These are all symptoms often associated with ADD/ADHD.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND MOODS

Although there is an abundance of research on omega-3 fatty acids and depression in adults, the research on children remains sparse but encouraging. In a study in the American Journal of Psychiatry involving 20 depressed children ages 6-12, dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids showed highly significant improvements in depressive symptoms. Omega-3 supplementation produced a large advantage compared with the placebo. In addition, a 2017 study in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health on 38 children ages 11-17 found significant reductions in depressive symptoms in the participants taking omega-3 fatty acids.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND AUTISM

A deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids may be linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, according to a meta-analysis of 6 trials in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. These studies showed that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids may improve hyperactivity, lethargy, and stereotypy (movements such as body rocking), which are common in children with autism.

THE HEAVY TOLL OF LOW LEVELS OF OMEGA-3s

Having low levels of EPA and DHA have been linked to mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, as well as suicidal behavior, ADD/ADHD, cognitive decline, and other behavioral and emotional issues. Unfortunately, most Americans have low levels of EPA and DHA. In 2016, Amen Clinics tested the omega-3 fatty acids levels of 50 consecutive patients who were not taking fish oil (the most commonly used source of EPA+DHA) and found that 49 had suboptimal levels. In another study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, the Amen Clinics research team correlated the brain SPECT scans of 130 patients with their EPA and DHA levels and found those with the lowest levels had lower blood flow (the #1 predictor of future brain problems) in the right hippocampus and posterior cingulate (one of the first areas to die in Alzheimer’s disease), among other areas. On cognitive testing at Amen Clinics, low omega-3s correlated with decreased scores in mood. To find out if your child has low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, there is a simple test called the Omega-3 Index. It measures the total amount of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in red blood cells and directly reflects their levels in the brain. The test is a clinically validated biomarker of the health of the brain. Aim for a level above 8%.

BOOSTING OMEGA-3 LEVELS IN CHILDREN

Getting adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids is critical for children. If your child has low levels of omega-3s or simply has behavioral or emotional symptoms, it’s a good idea to increase the intake of this important nutrient. Increase healthy fats. To raise omega-3 levels in children, be sure to include foods in their diet that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as: Try high-quality omega-3 supplements, such as fish oil. At Amen Clinics, the recommended dosage for children is about 800 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily for every 40 pounds of body weight. Look for a ratio of approximately 60/40 EPA to DHA. Your child’s mental, emotional, and behavioral health lays the foundation for their overall well-being and happiness in life. ADD/ADHD, depression, and other emotional and behavioral problems can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, believe in using the least toxic, most effective treatments, including natural solutions.. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for children as well as their parents. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk.

Many people are aware of some of the devastating consequences of uncontrolled or untreated diabetes, including an increased risk for heart disease, blindness, and kidney failure. But did you know that it also puts you at a higher risk for memory problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of dementia? Scientific evidence links abnormal insulin levels to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. That’s bad news for the 50% of the U.S. population who have diabetes or prediabetes.

Diabetes is a disorder that occurs when the body’s blood sugar levels are chronically too high. The condition develops when the body either does not produce enough insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels or does not use insulin efficiently. There are two types of diabetes:

Both types of diabetes damage blood vessels, which then cause harm to the body’s organs and brain.

Prediabetes, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, is defined as having blood sugar levels that are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.

Diabetes and the Brain

Brain imaging studies using a technology called SPECT shows that diabetes has been linked to decreased blood flow to the brain (which is the #1 predictor of future memory problems) and a smaller hippocampus, a brain region that is involved in the formation of memories.

Even mildly elevated blood sugar levels and prediabetes are significant problems and are associated with brain atrophy, memory problems, and dementia. In people who didn’t have diabetes, the risk of dementia was 18% higher for those with an average blood glucose level of 115 milligrams per deciliter compared to those with average glucose levels of 100 mg/dL. (Normal blood sugar levels are less than 100 mg/dL.) And every incrementally higher glucose level was associated with a higher risk of dementia.

“High normal” blood sugar levels have also been linked with shrinkage in the hippocampus, leading to memory problems. The dementia risk was even worse for people who had diabetes because their blood sugar levels were generally higher. It was 40% higher for people with an average glucose level of 190 mg/dL compared to those with an average glucose level of 160 mg/dL.

10 Ways to Lower Your Risk for Diabetes and Protect Your Memory

The great news is that diabetes and prediabetes are preventable and even reversible in many cases and can help protect your memory. Here are 10 ways to do it.

  1. Ditch all sugar and artificial sweeteners. The refined stuff causes blood sugar levels to spike, and the fake stuff is linked to a higher risk of dementia.
  2. Limit high-glycemic, low-fiber foods (think cookies, cake, and pretzels).
  3. Eat smart carbohydrates that are high in fiber and low-glycemic (think vegetables, fruits, and protein-rich carbs like quinoa).
  4. Skip sodas and sugar-laden energy drinks and opt for still or sparkling water instead.
  5. Drink decaffeinated tea and coffee to boost metabolism and lower the risk of diabetes.
  6. Eat small quantities of high-quality protein and some healthy fat (such as avocado, walnuts, or olive oil) with every meal to stabilize blood sugar levels.
  7. If you’re overweight or obese, forget crash diets. Instead, lose weight gradually as you develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
  8. Make physical exercise—and especially strength training—a part of your daily routine to help balance blood sugar levels. In one study, women who did strength training reduced their incidence of diabetes by 30% compared to women who did no strength training.
  9. Spice up your cooking with cinnamon, which has been shown to lower fasting glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce HbA1c (a test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months)
  10. Supplement your diet with a high-quality multivitamin/mineral, as well as:
    • vitamin D (low levels have been linked to memory problems, including Alzheimer’s disease)
    • omega-3 fatty acids EPA/DHA (help maintain proper insulin signaling)
    • chromium picolinate (can aid in insulin regulation)
    • alpha-lipoic acid (improves overall blood sugar management)

If you or a loved one has diabetes or is experiencing memory problems, understand that there are many things you can do to prevent or reverse diabetes and memory loss. At Amen Clinics, we use brain SPECT imaging as part of a comprehensive brain-body assessment to help us develop a personalized treatment plan for your needs. Our Memory Rescue program has already helped many patients improve their memory.

Reach out today to speak with a specialist at 888-288-9834 or schedule a visit online.

Do you enjoy drinking soda?

Well, don’t be surprised if you start forgetting where you left your keys, because according to US scientists eating too much sugar can eat away at your brainpower. The recently published study showed how a steady diet of high-fructose corn syrup (like those found in sugar and other refined sweet treats) zapped lab rats’ memories.

The Science

The study was conducted at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) where researchers fed two groups of rats a solution containing high-fructose corn syrup — a common ingredient in processed foods — as drinking water for six weeks. One group of rats was supplemented with brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids in the form of flaxseed oil and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), while the other group was not. Before the sugar drinks began, the rats were enrolled in a five-day training session in a complicated maze. After six weeks on the sweet solution, the rats were then placed back in the maze to see how they fared.

Sugar & The Brain

A closer look at the rat brains revealed that those who were not fed DHA supplements had also developed signs of resistance to insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar and regulates brain function. “Because insulin can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, the hormone may signal neurons to trigger reactions that disrupt learning and cause memory loss,” Gomez-Pinilla said. In other words, eating too much fructose could interfere with insulin’s ability to regulate how cells use and store sugar, which is necessary for processing thoughts and emotions. Everyone is always focused on the effect of high-fructose corn syrup on weight gain and obesity, but this study shows that a high-fructose diet not only harms the body, but harms the brain as well.

What Kind of Sugar Is Most Damaging?

High-fructose corn syrup is commonly found in soda, condiments, applesauce, baby food and other processed snacks. What is worse is that the average American consumes more than 40 pounds (18 kilograms) of high-fructose corn syrup per year, according to the US Department of Agriculture. The Standard American Diet (SAD) is saturated with sugar, high omega-6 fatty acids, excessive calories, trans fats, processed and pesticide-laden foods. People who have a simple, carbohydrate-based diet (bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, fruit juice and sugar) have a 400% increased risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease. New research has also linked a sugar-laden diet to Alzheimer’s disease, which some scientists are now calling “type 3 diabetes.” Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, depression, and obesity are national health epidemics that continue to grow. The answer is NOT to see them as individual, separate disorders, but rather as different outcomes of the same unhealthy lifestyle that have exactly the same cure. The best way to prevent Alzheimer’s is to eliminate all the risk factors that are associated with the disease—and the good news is that most of them are either preventable or treatable.

We Can Help

Being serious about brain health has no age limit, especially when a better brain can help improve your focus, mood, and memory. You can create a brain-healthy life by learning how to love and care for the most important part of your body- your brain. To learn how we can optimize your health, please call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit us online to schedule a visit. Did you know about 60% of the solid weight of your brain is FAT—yes, fat. It’s a scientifically proven fact: Your brain and your body NEED healthy cholesterol and fatty acids to function optimally. High cholesterol is obviously bad for the brain and body, yet low cholesterol has been associated with homicide, suicide and severe depression. To be healthy, you need to get enough of the right types of fats daily.

Fat is Key

Fat plays an important structural role in your brain cell membranes. In fact, the essential fatty acid DHA makes up a full quarter of all brain fat, and it’s the brain’s preferred fat for building membranes.

Your Brain, DHA & Fat

When your brain doesn’t get adequate amounts of DHA through the diet, it’s forced to use inferior fats, such as saturated and trans fats. Brain cell membranes become more rigid with these inferior fats, which can slow information processing and overall brain function. • Healthy young adults whose diets were low in DHA found that supplementation helped support healthy memory and reaction time. • DHA also benefits seniors experiencing mild memory problems associated with aging. After one year, elderly subjects taking a DHA-concentrated fish oil supplement showed significant improvements in short-term and working memory compared to those taking placebo. • And memory is just one aspect of cognitive function that Omega-3 supplementation supports: A meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials found that it helps maintain an ideal attention span and quick processing speed too!

But let’s not forget about EPA:

• Although it doesn’t play the structural role that DHA does, it helps support mood and emotional balance. • It’s thought that EPA may also support a healthy response to inflammation in the brain, by helping to maintain healthy metabolic pathways. • In this regard, EPA appears to be more effective than DHA for mood support. • Omega-3 supplementation has also been found effective in people who are prone to mood swings and supports a healthy response to occasional, everyday stress.

What to remember when getting the goods

• Because fish can accumulate toxins such as mercury, dioxins, and polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB), it’s extremely important that the product be highly purified. • Fish oil spoils easily; look for a product that is manufactured according to the highest quality standards. • Choose a product that has a 60/40 ratio of EPA to DHA, starting with at least 500 mg of DHA. Some inferior quality brands are lacking in one or the other or sometimes both. This is good news because it means that you possess the power to change your brain! There are many ways to become sick, but there is a clear path to wellness and it’s more simple than you think. If you are ready to transform your life, we can help you.

Improve Your Brain Health

At Amen Clinics, we have spent decades helping people just like you improve their brain health. Call us today at 888-288-9834 or schedule a visit. Did you know that six percent of the population will have a significant mood disorder sometime in their life? Only 20 to 25 percent of these people ever seek help. This is unfortunate, because mood disorders are treatable. And treatment can be further enhanced by supplementing with omega-3 fish oils. Let’s dive in!

The History of Inherited Omega-3 Deficiency

Multiple findings directly correlate with the rise in ADHD and other mood disorders since the 1990s. Many parents of today’s teens were born in the 1960s and 1970s, a time period in which farming methods and dietary values shifted significantly for the worse.

During the 1960s and 70s:

• Omega-3-deficient oils like corn and soy oil became prevalent. • Farm animals moved from eating grass to grain. Since omega-3s are present in grass and algae, much of today’s grain-fed cattle contain less of these essential fatty acids. • Processed convenience foods (which are high in omega-6s) gained popularity.

The Future of Omega-3 Deficiency

Although many infant formulas are now fortified with DHA, an important omega-3 fatty acid for brain development, many American children eat a consistent diet of processed convenience foods that are completely void of omega-3 fatty acids and extremely high in poor-quality omega-6 fatty acids. Diets lacking omega-3 fatty acids can have worsened effects over consecutive generations. This means that we may very well see a continued, and even elevated trend of cognitive impairment conditions in both the young and old over time. In general, Americans eat 11 to 30 times the amount of omega-6s as compared to omega-3s. When this ratio is out of balance, omega-6s promote inflammation within the brain and other tissues in the body. Foods such as: • Vegetable oils • Baked goods • Crackers • Cereals are high in omega-6 fatty acids. Furthermore, high heat and processing de-stabilizes these oils, making them even more pro-inflammatory. Do your best to limit omega-6s – the brain health of your grandchildren may depend on it. But the good news keeps coming. Unlike psychiatric drugs, the side-effects of Omega-3 fatty acids tend to be positive. Omega-3s are good for multiple areas of the brain and body, such as: • Heart • Skin • Hair • Nails • Overall health Our experienced staff will help you learn more about your brain. If you’re ready to take control over your future, call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Eating healthy during pregnancy is one of the most important things to take into consideration for the health of your baby’s growth and development. After all, if you are eating brain-healthy foods, so is your baby. An ideal diet for a pregnant woman is one that incorporates a variety of vegetables, fruits, grains, and lean proteins like fish. h Fish is one of the healthiest forms of lean protein you can eat, but you need to make sure the fish you are eating is wild caught high-quality fish that is contaminant free.  Pregnant women need to be especially careful because eating fish that contain even low levels of mercury can increase the risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in offspring.  This can be confusing for mothers to be because there are also several other types of fish during pregnancy may protect against the disorder.

Is There An ADHD Risk in Children From Their Mother’s Fish Consumption?

A cohort study of almost 400 children showed that the risk for inattention and impulsivity at the age of 8 years was significantly associated with maternal mercury levels and as the mercury levels increased, so did risk. The study was conducted between 1993 and 1998.  788 infants from Massachusetts were enrolled in the study which was designed to assess a possible link between exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and neurodevelopment. Soon after birth, hair samples were collected from the mothers and analyzed for mercury levels. The mothers also filled out a questionnaire regarding fish consumption during pregnancy. At 8-year follow-up, 421 of these children were assessed for possible ADHD behaviors and the results showed that not only was mercury exposure associated with inattention and impulsivity/hyperactivity, but the risk for these behaviors increased with maternal hair mercury levels.  The threshold for first association with ADHD symptoms appeared to be at least 1 μg/g or more of mercury.  In addition, these associations were more notable in boys than girls. This research does not mean that pregnant women should avoid eating all types of fish because the study also found offspring of mothers who consumed at least 2 servings of fish a week (which is currently more than the current recommended amounts from the FDA and EPA) had a decrease in ADHD-related behaviors — especially in impulsivity/hyperactivity. “These findings underscore the difficulties of balancing the benefits of fish intake with the detriments of low-level mercury exposure in developing dietary recommendations in pregnancy,” write the investigators. Although the researchers did not assess which fish are worst and best to consume while pregnant, they noted in a release that previous studies have shown that shark, fresh tuna, and swordfish should be avoided by pregnant women, whereas fish such as haddock, salmon, and flounder are good because of their low levels of mercury and their nutritional value. “Women need to know that nutrients in fish are good for the brain of a developing fetus, but women also need to be aware that high mercury levels in some fish pose a risk,” said lead author Sharon Sagiv, Ph.D., MPH, from Boston University School of Public Health in Massachusetts.

Brain Healthy Pregnancy Tips

The FDA provides three recommendations for young children, pregnant women, and women of child-bearing age:

  1. Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish because they might contain high levels of mercury.
  2. Eat up to 12 ounces (2 average meals) a week of a variety of fish and shellfish that are lower in mercury. Five of the most commonly eaten fish and shellfish that are low in mercury are: shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish. Another commonly eaten fish, albacore or big eye (“white”) tuna depending on its origin might have more mercury than canned light tuna. So, when choosing your two meals of fish and shellfish, it is recommended that you should not eat more than up to 6 ounces (one average meal) of albacore tuna per week.
  3. Check local advisories about the safety of fish caught by family and friends in your local lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. If no advice is available, eat up to 6 ounces (one average meal) per week of fish you catch from local waters, but consume no other fish during that week.
A diet rich in omega-3’s can help boost mom and baby’s brain and neurological development. Incorporate a DHA supplement, flaxseed oil, walnuts, and fatty fish to avoid getting DHA from high mercury foods. Benefits include better memory, vision, and better language comprehension during their early childhood. Mom’s can reap all these benefits and reduce the risk of post-partum depression. Recognizing how important it is to make sure the fish you consume comes from high-quality wild caught sources is a must. The National Institutes of Health recommend that pregnant and nursing women get at least 300 milligrams of DHA in their daily diet. Amen Clinics wants to help support brain health of all women including the health of our future generations. If you or someone you know is struggling with brain health contact us today at 888-288-9834 or schedule a visit today. For daily brain health updates, follow us on Facebook. 

Neuroimaging shows increased blood flow in regions of the brain associated with memory and learning for people with higher omega-3 levels, according to a new report in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Amsterdam, NL, May 19, 2017 – The incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is expected to triple in the coming decades and no cure has been found. Recently, interest in dietary approaches for prevention of cognitive decline has increased. In particular, the omega-3 fatty acids have shown anti-amyloid, anti-tau and anti-inflammatory actions in the brains of animals. In a new article published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers have found that for patients with high omega-3 levels, blood flow in specific areas of the brain is increased. “This study is a major advance in demonstrating the value of nutritional intervention for brain health by using the latest brain imaging,” commented George Perry, PhD, Dean and Professor of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Single photon emission computed tomography, or SPECT, can measure blood perfusion in the brain. Images acquired from subjects performing various cognitive tasks will show higher blood flow in specific brain regions. When these images were compared to the Omega-3 Index, a measure of the blood concentration of two omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), investigators found a statistically significant correlation between higher blood flow and higher Omega-3 Index. In addition, they evaluated the neuropsychological functions of the subjects and found that omega-3 levels also correlated with various psychological feelings using a standardized test battery (WebNeuro). This study drew from a random sample of 166 participants from a psychiatric referral clinic for which Omega-3 Index results were available. The participants were categorized into two groups of higher EPA+DHA concentrations (>50th percentile) and lower concentrations (<50th percentile). Quantitative brain SPECT was conducted on 128 regions of their brains and each participant completed computerized testing of their neurocognitive status. Results indicated statistically significant relationships between the Omega-3 index, regional perfusion on brain SPECT in areas involved with memory, and neurocognitive testing. Overall, the study showed positive relationships between omega-3 EPA+DHA status, brain perfusion, and cognition. Lead author Daniel G. Amen, MD, of Amen Clinics Inc., Costa Mesa, CA, adds, “This is very important research because it shows a correlation between lower omega-3 fatty acid levels and reduced brain blood flow to regions important for learning, memory, depression and dementia.” Co-author William S. Harris, PhD, University of South Dakota School of Medicine. Vermillion, SD, lends this perspective, “Although we have considerable evidence that omega-3 levels are associated with better cardiovascular health, the role of the ‘fish oil’ fatty acids in mental health and brain physiology is just beginning to be explored. This study opens the door to the possibility that relatively simple dietary changes could favorably impact cognitive function.   If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory problems, Amen Clinics can help. Our experienced staff will help you learn more about your brain, support you in preventing Alzheimer’s and dementia and assist with early diagnosis and intervention. If you’re ready to take control over your future, call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.